A number of historic Scottish vessels were recently celebrated at the National Historic Ships UK Awards. The PS Waverley, a paddle steamer from 1946, was named National Flagship of the Year, while the 1924 Brixham Trawler Provident received the Operational Flagship of the Year award.
Scottish vessels have a strong presence at these awards, with several others achieving Flagship status in recent years. For example, The Swan was awarded in 2023, MV Glenachulish in 2022, Tall Ship Glenlee in 2021, and SS Explore and Spartan in 2020.
In 2022, HMS Unicorn in Dundee won the prestigious Martyn Heighton Award for Excellence in Maritime Conservation. Additionally, Tim Loftus of Johnson and Loftus Boatbuilders in Ullapool was the runner-up in the same category last year.
These awards are an annual celebration of maritime heritage across the UK, aiming to engage people of all ages and backgrounds with historic vessels through various activities such as photography, volunteering, conservation efforts, online engagement, and skills-based training.
The PS Waverley, the last Clyde paddle steamer built, was originally constructed for the London and North Eastern Railway to replace war losses. It continues to cruise around the UK coast each summer, visiting 70 ports and piers. The vessel has been fully restored and painted in its original LNER colors.
The other Scottish vessel, Provident, which received the Operational Flagship of the Year award, operates classic sailing holidays around the Scottish islands. Provident celebrated its centenary with a return cruise from Scotland to Brixham.
In addition to the Flagship awards, there were other recognitions at the event. Mark Dillen from Kent earned the runner-up spot for Photographer of the Year with his striking image of the paddle steamer PS Waverley. The Wick Society Boat Club was honored with the Marsh Volunteer Award for their dedication to the conservation and operation of historic vessels.
The Wick Society Boat Club, established in 1971, has members ranging from 18 to 89 years old. The club plays a crucial role in protecting and promoting the area’s history, including the preservation of the 1890 Fifie Isabella Fortuna. The vessel, originally built in Arbroath, has been restored and maintained by volunteers to ensure its participation in port visits, festivals, and events.
The National Historic Ships UK Awards not only recognize the importance of historic vessels but also highlight the dedicated individuals and organizations working tirelessly to preserve maritime heritage for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
